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Reparations considered: What's it take to set it right?
Most people never change their minds. Blame ego for this, probably. Reversing your opinion is an act of humility. It suggests that, previously, you were wrong. Wrong? Nobody wants to be wrong! We'd rather be consistent. Changing your mind takes effort, too. It almost hurts.
So we cling to our beliefs. To make this easier, we limit our intake of information to stuff we agree with. Whatever might rock the boat is screened out. Thus keeping up with the news becomes more an act of comfort, like eating ice cream, than an intellectual exercise.
I try not to be that way. Not being an especially smart person, I've developed a bag of tricks to make myself seem brainier than I really am. One of those tricks is to ask, if only occasionally, "Am I wrong here?'' It's an enormously helpful tool. I can't tell you how many times it has saved me: in arguments with my wife, in discussions at work.
And it helps when I'm trying to make sense of the pulsing chaos of the world. For instance, when the idea of reparations to black Americans for slavery in this country was recently raised– again– I prepared myself to return to the ramparts to defend patriotism and historical truth.
Demanding reparations for slavery seemed to paint black Americans, inaccurately, as victims, while their middle class was actually growing year by year. It was unpatriotic–a slap at all those abolitionists and Union soldiers. A slap at Harriet Beecher Stowe.
My thinking went like this: History is a rough place, filled with bad things, and to try to cash in on your misfortune now is extortion, the same lunging after a sliver of pie that Jesse Jackson's Rainbow Coalition and Operation PUSH is famous for. Blacks were taking their inspiration from Jews, ironically enough, using the Jews' unseemly success at prying a few billion dollars out of the Germans as reparation for the 20th century Holocaust as an excuse to try to right this dusty 19th century wrong... an impossible task that would only lead to further dissension and fragmentation. Next, Mexico would demand Texas back and, having caved in on the slavery issue, we'd end up forced to pay them off.
That was my thinking. I had it all worked out, down to the pithy ending, and had flopped my fingers on the keyboard and started to write, when an objection occurred to me that I just couldn't bat away.
What about the big black slums in every city in America? Chicago? What about Detroit? What about South Central L.A.? What about the entrenched poverty and pervasive dysfunction which, despite gains, is such a problem for black America? What created that, and why is it still here?
Remember, all manner of national and ethnic groups were once dirt poor in this nation. Irish immigrants were penniless and despised. The Jews, no strangers to hate, sold rags on Maxwell Street. You could pass it off to skin color. Those Colleens and Cohens could melt into society in a way black people couldn't. But now we are seeing groups of other ethnicities– Asians, Hispanics– arrive in this country and scramble up the ladder in a way that black Americans haven't. Why?
What is it about black people? If you believe, as all rational people do, that everyone is the same at the start, human beings, equal in their potentials and abilities, that we all have the same capacity to grow, live, learn, love, then where did this mass of black poverty and generation-to-generation dysfunction come from?
At first it seemed ludicrous to me to write it off to slavery. That ended 140 years ago. A long time. But slavery really didn't end with the Civil War. In the South, it continued with an additional century of repression that, if not actual chattel slavery, was very close. In the North, it continued as 100 years of bigotry and segregation.
Could the 200 years of institutional slavery (unlike reparationists, who don't help their cause by exaggerating, I trace slavery, not back to 1492, but to the 1600s, when slaves actually appeared) plus 100 years of repression that have not ended to this day, somehow have a role in the widespread poverty we barely recognize, never mind deal with?
Well, to quote young people: duh.
This does not mean I believe the United States should cut a check.
Frankly, I'm not sure what the nation should do. Apology isn't it. Apologies are symbolic and don't help people. But I do know– now– that we need to commence a process that begins with the thought: How did this group of Americans, who happen to be black and poor, get to this position in life? And what can their country, the United States, do to make sure that the promise of America is as true for them as it is for others? What can be done now that hasn't been done?
I am beginning to suspect that it is the people demanding the issue of slavery be addressed who are the patriotic ones, the ones who believe in the grandeur of the United States and the sweep of history.
History is what brought us to today. I have no trouble believing one reason I'm a bookish kind of guy is my great-grandfather studied the Talmud. So why is it so hard to accept that one reason, perhaps the main reason, a certain segment of America is poor and dysfunctional is its great-great-grandparents were separated in chains on a slaver's dock?
And to accept that idea– and really, what other explanation is there?– is to be on the road to believing that the same nation that fractured a group of citizens at one point in history can, 150 years later, do more to set matters right.
Neil Steinberg writes for the Chicago Sun-Times, where this essay originally appeared.


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Croatia's Defence Budget has experienced a significant reduction in nominal values in the last few years. This drop is also reflected in the percentual GDP allocation to Defence. In 2015, the Defence Budget reached some HRK 4.6 billion, corresponding to 1.37% of the GDP. Furthermore,...View Analytical Data
Country Offset Matrix
Offsets/IC frameworks of some 90 countries, providing insight on several related aspects, such as priority areas, eligible transactions, thresholds, offset quotas, multipliers, penalties, etc.Find out more
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The purpose of this fifth, expanded and updated edition of the Catalogue of the Croatian Defence Industry is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current capacities and achievements of the defence industry in Croatia.
Source: https://www.morh.hr
Download in PDF format
Croatian Armed Forces Long Term Development Plan for the period 2015 to 2024 sums up in one way the efforts made at the conceptual-normative regulations of Defence area, and on the other hand it gives a clear outline of the new profile of the Armed Forces. In the past three years processes in the Defence Sector were focused on the implementation of appropriate reforms and adjustments related to the ambiguous strategic and regional environment.
Source: https://www.morh.hr/

subset: commoncrawl


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Full-Time Technology Business Consultant II (.Net, SQL)
Job Description
Black Knight is the premier provider of integrated technology, services, data and analytics that lenders and servicers look to first to help successfully manage the entire loan life cycle. Our deep understanding of regulatory and compliance issues complements the knowledge, technology and solutions we offer to help our clients achieve their business goals. Black Knight offers leading software systems; data and analytics offerings; and information solutions that facilitate and automate many of the business processes across the mortgage life cycle.
Serves as a senior contributor with expertise in particular business processes responsible for formulating systems scope and objectives relative to a client organization's business plan and industry requirements. Acts independent ly or as a member of a project team responsible for providing technical guidance concerning the business implications of the application of various systems. Provides technical consulting on complex projects.
Technology Business Consultant II
Intermediate professional role. Moderate skills with high level of proficiency. Develops and implements solutions that require analysis and research. Works on small to large, complex projects that require increased skill in one or more technologies. Possesses knowledge in a specific business area. Works on one or more projects as a team member or occasionally as a project lead. Works under general supervision with latitude for independent judgment. May consult with senior peers on certain projects. Typically requires at least three years of demonstrated business analysis/consulting experience, a minimum of three years of mortgage and home equity services consulting or management experience, and demonstra ted technical capabilities.
* Programming experience required
* Ability to read code
* Experience working with development technologies such as .Net or SQL required
* Prior Mortgage or Home Equity Servicing experience preferred
* Functional knowledge in the following area(s) may be required:
* Customer Service
* Default
* Escrow
* Special Loans
* Investor
* Year End
* Cash
* Works individually or within a team on technology business consulting projects to meet specific client requirements.
* Serves as liaison between end-users and the information technology organization consultants during IT and technology consulting projects.
* Expertly researches and documents client needs, technology, or regulations related to system design, enhancement, acquiring hardware or software that will impact multiple platforms and/or applications.
* Defines product scope, objectives and requirements. Defines specifications and data models for product development and testing.
* Creates detailed specifications from which programs will be written.
* Analyzes marketplace, industry, company, technology trends and best practices, vendor products and services, etc. Also analyzes system impacts to other systems and procedures. Provides recommendations on best practices and changes in technology accordingly.
* Devises and/or modifies processes and procedures to achieve greater efficiencies and to solve the most complex business process problems related to computer equipment capacity and limitations, operating time, and form of desired results.
* Assists client in writing test plans and test cases to ensure enhancements made to applications meet client needs and that application integrity is maintained.
* Conducts a variety of tests such as system, integration, readiness, and acceptance tests. Conducts tests using client data to be certain client needs will be met.
* Influences clients, business partners and service providers regarding priorities, hardware/software selection and/or vendor selection.
* Consults directly with the client and may travel to the client site.
* Acts as team leader for technical aspects of consulting projects, leading sub-plans or small projects. May mentor, guide, advise and/or check the work of less experienced Technology Business Consultants.
* May play a key role in the training of client and technical support personnel on enhancements, new systems or procedures.
* Assists with delivering training either one-on-one as knowledge transfer or in a classroom setting, depending on the number in the audience and client preference.
* May serve as pre-sales support specialist when needed.
* May require travel.
* Performs other related duties as required.
A Bachelor's degree or the equivalent combination of education, training, or work experience.
* Familiarity with Black Knight products and services
* In-depth knowledge of mortgage-and home-equity services industry and associated regulatory and compliance requirements
* Knowledge of the tools, techniques and principles used in application development in objective-oriented development, or other relevant technology
* Proficiency in business modeling and requirements definition disciplines
* Proficiency in quality management methods, tools and technologies
* Awareness of system-development protocol
* Excellent customer service skills that build high levels of customer satisfaction for internal and external clients
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills to technical and non-technical audiences of various levels in the organization (e.g., executive, management, individual contributors)
* Willingly shares relevant knowledge and expertise to other resources
* Excellent analytical, decision-making, problem-solving, interpersonal, team, negotiation, conflict management and time management skills
* Ability to persuade and influence others on the best approach to take
* Project management skills, including the ability to estimate work effort for project sub-plans or small projects and ensure the project is successfully completed
* Is resourceful and proactive in gathering information and sharing ideas
Black Knight is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, and protected veteran or military family status. Our employees' diversity is our strength, and when we embrace our differences, it makes us better and brighter. Black Knight's commitment to inclusion is at the core of who we are, and motivates us in how we do business each and every day.
How to ApplyApplication URL: https://www.aplitrak.com/?adid=c2ZyaWVkZXJpY2guMDExNDguMTA1OTRAYmxhY2trbmlnaHRmaW4uYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t
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I made a crossword puzzle for you guys about parrots. Feel free to print it out for something fun to do. If you'd like to discuss it or share your answers, you can put the number with the answer. No cheating. Do the puzzle before going down for the discussion
This puzzle has been up for a while so the answer key is now available at the bottom once you've given it a try yourself.


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A lush, green lawn may be the conventional idea of curb appeal, but those grass-covered yards come with a high price tag. "In the U.S., the average lawn is nearly a quarter of an acre," says Gina Samarotto, principal designer at Samarotto Design Group, a landscape design firm in Poughkeepsie, New York. "Over a year, that could mean upwards of $5,000 in care and maintenance costs."
And our green yards cost more than money—they could also harm our health. Of 30 commonly used lawn pesticides, 19 are linked with cancer or carcinogenicity, 13 with birth defects, 21 with reproductive defects, 26 with liver or kidney damage and 15 with neurotoxicity, according to the National Coalition for Pesticide-Free Lawns. Pesticides also threaten the ecosystem in and around our neighborhoods. Of the same 30 common pesticides, 17 are detected in groundwater, 23 have the ability to leach into drinking water sources, 24 are toxic to fish and other aquatic life, 11 are toxic to bees and 16 are toxic to birds. Replacing conventional grass with low-water, low-maintenance landscaping alternatives benefits both the environment and your pocketbook.
Planning Your Low-Maintenance Landscaping
When beginning your lawn renovation, first consider your preferences and needs, says David Verespy, landscape architect at Rock Spring Design Group in Trumbull, Connecticut. Think about what kind of layout you'd like and how you're going to use the yard. Is it a place for children to play, or do you use it mainly to entertain? Do you want to keep any parts grass-covered? Where could your home benefit by planting shrubs or evergreens? (Visit Landscaping for Energy Efficiency to learn how to use landscaping to aid your home's energy efficiency.) Where might you like to grow vegetables and herbs or add hardscape such as a gazebo or patio? "No yard is entirely maintenance-free, but it's how you allocate your resources that matters," Verespy says.
Once you've determined your overall yard layout, start choosing plants. Samarotto recommends making a list of favorite plants, then analyzing their needs in relation to your yard. Consider site conditions such as sun exposure, frequency and amount of rainfall, and wind conditions. "Evaluate your space so you know the choices you make are right for your microclimate," she says. Don't attempt to grow grass in areas where it doesn't want to grow. Instead of forcing grass on shady spaces, embrace shade-loving herbs or shrubs such as rhododendron, lemon balm, sweet woodruff and anise hyssop (see more herbal groundcovers in "Herbs Have It Covered" further along in this article). If your home is in a dry climate, incorporate native and drought-tolerant trees, shrubs and cacti into the landscape to reduce water use.
Perennial beds and shrubs are low-maintenance landscaping choices that offer long-term savings. "Shrubs grow well on their own and require a lot less water and fewer chemicals," Verespy says. Shrubs such as summersweet, spirea, junipers and forsythia are easy to care for and eliminate mowing time; however, they do require weeding. When choosing shrubs, select native or naturalized varieties that naturally grow in your home's area, Verespy says. For information on what plants to grow (or not to grow) in your area, visit the PLANTS Database on the U.S. Department of Agriculture website, or contact your local cooperative extension office. Find an office near you at the USDA's Cooperative Extension System Offices page.
Good Bedfellows: Companion Planting
Flower, herb and vegetable gardens—whether in the ground or in raised beds—eliminate yard space and allow you to grow some of your own food. "Raised garden beds are a wonderful way to create architectural interest while providing space for both edible and ornamental plants," Samarotto says. "Choose a design that lets you stagger the beds for the most dramatic effect." To naturally repel insects, avoid planting large quantities of one plant in a single area, and rely on companion planting, which pairs certain flowers, herbs and vegetables together. "This is the basic methodology behind pairing garlic and roses," Samarotto says. "Aphids love roses but hate garlic!" Onions deter insects, as do flowers with strong scents such as marigolds. For a guide to companion plants, visit nhandg.com/replace-your-yard[link/redirect].
Life Aquatic: Landscaping with Ponds
Ponds are a lovely way to reduce maintenance space and support a healthy ecosystem. "The ecosystem a pond develops is carefree," Samarotto says. Ponds help maintain a natural pest-control system, attracting birds that eat the bugs that can destroy garden plants. Ponds can attract mosquitoes, but several organic repellents can help keep the pests away (see "Resources" at the end of this article for recommendations).
When installing a pond, dig deeply to prevent freezing in the winter. "A pond that is below the freeze line—usually about 30 inches—can run year-round and provide a safe and ecologically sound environment for fish, turtles, frogs and other garden friends," Samarotto says. Border the pond with boulders to further decrease lawn space and create a picturesque environment for plantings. "Groupings of boulders partially dug into the earth and staged with an eye toward design replace the lawn readily while also offering a spectacular backdrop for plants and shrubs," she says.
Flowers and Shrubs for Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Gina Samarotto, principal designer at Samarotto Design Group in New York, recommends these easy-to-maintain flowers and shrubs.
Autumn Joy: This hardy plant is readily available in nearly every part of the country and provides glorious bursts of color in late summer and early fall.
Barberry: Varieties like 'Rosy Glow' add a burst of warm color to the landscape with little maintenance.
Black-Eyed Susan: This quick-spreading and easy-to-grow flower is a wonderful choice to cover a lot of ground with bright, long-lasting blooms.
Boxwood: This slow-growing evergreen shrub requires nominal watering once it's well-established.
Butterfly Bush: A fast-growing woody ornamental with showy flowers, it's a favorite of butterflies. (Avoid this plant if you live in the Pacific Northwest, where it can be invasive.)
Cacti: Varieties such as hens and chicks and yucca can be integrated into nearly any landscape and require almost no attention.
Evergreen Ilex: It thrives with little care and can produce beautiful berries to add interest to the landscape.
Liriope: This semi-evergreen plant fills out quickly and features lovely purple spires in the late summer; ideal for borders.
Herbs Have It Covered
Many herbs grow low to the ground and offer sweet scents and shade- and drought-resistance.
Corsican mint: A low-growing groundcover perfect between pavers, Corsican mint has a minty/sage scent and prefers light shade and lots of moisture.
Creeping golden marjoram: This drought-tolerant, sun-loving herb features bright golden foliage with white and pink flowers in spring.
Lamb's ears: Soft, beautiful lamb's ears are excellent for crowding out weeds and are delightful in a children's garden. Lamb's ears grow well in full sun and partial shade.
Periwinkle: An excellent choice for sloping ground, drought-tolerant periwinkle thrives in shady or semi-shady areas. Don't grow periwinkle near other specimens in a flowerbed or garden as it's a vigorous grower and can overtake other plants.
Platinum sage: A lovely, unusual herb with silvery leaves, platinum sage is at its best in sunny areas with well-drained soil.
Sweet violet: Sweetly scented with violet or white flowers, sweet violet prefers shade but will tolerate full sun in cooler areas.
Sweet woodruff: Sweet woodruff smells of freshly mown hay and prefers shady areas.
Wooly thyme: Drought-tolerant thyme spills nicely over walls, pavers and stones. Although thymes are sun-worshippers, they'll tolerate part shade.
Wooly yarrow: A drought-tolerant herb that does best in full sun, wooly yarrow is soft under bare feet.
Low-Maintenance Grass
If you want to keep grass but reduce your yard's maintenance, choose low-growing varieties that maintain a lush, green color with no chemical use and require less water, mowing and weeding. Try low-maintenance meadow grasses such as little bluestem and switchgrass, long-rooted clover (its long roots help it require less water) or zoysia, a slow-growing, drought-tolerant grass.
Deborah Huso is a freelance travel, health, home and garden design writer based in Virginia. Visit her blog, I Only Love You Because I Have To.
National Coalition for Pesticide-Free Lawns
healthy lawn information
Department of Agriculture
PLANTS Database; Cooperative Extension System Offices
plant database; find local cooperative extension offices
All About Building Waterfalls, Ponds and Streams by Ortho Books
Beautiful No-Mow Yards by Evelyn J. Hadden
Down to Earth Natural Lawn Care by Dick Raymond
The Organic Lawn Care Guide by Victor M. Barnes
The Organic Lawn Care Manual by Paul Boardway Tukey
Smart Guide: Ponds & Fountains: Step-by-Step Projects by James Barrett
Low-Maintenance Herb and Grass Seeds
Horizon Herbs
herb seeds
Johnny's Selected Seeds
herb and flower seeds
No Mow Grass
mow-free, low-water, chemical-free grass seed
Pearl's Premium
low-maintenance grass seed
The Thyme Garden Herb Company
herb seeds


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Fortas, Abe
"Abe Fortas was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, the son of an immigrant cabinetmaker. After graduating from Southwestern University in Memphis, Fortas attended Yale Law School. He joined the faculty there after graduation, but was quickly lured to the New Deal lawyers in Washington. Fortas provided behind-the-scenes advice to Democratic politicians for years prior to his appointment to the Court in 1965 by President Lyndon Johnson. Fortas had represented Johnson when Johnson's eighty-four-vote victory in the 1948 Texas Democratic primary was challenged. During his years of private practice in Washington, Fortas found time to defend victims of McCarthyism and litigate important cases, including Gideon v. Wainwright which established the right of indigents to counsel in state criminal cases. In 1969, Life magazine revealed that Fortas had accepted and then returned a fee of $20,000 from a charitable foundation controlled by the family of an indicted stock manipulator. Fortas resigned from the bench in 1969 but denied any wrongdoing."--Oyez.org, U.S. Supreme Court Media
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Fluttering activity
What a weekend! The Humidity is back in the ATL, so it made obvious sense for the family & I to be outside, sweating like dogs at Chattahoochee Nature Center's Butterfly Festival this past Saturday. For some fun pics, be sure to check out this photoset, courtesy of Wifey. Read more about our day HERE.
Well, if you had a chance to read my wife's blog, there's an earlier post (aptly titled, goodbye summer) that mentions that we'll have to move soon. It sucks to move in the first place, but it sucks even more when you're being told to leave because the owner wants to put the house on the market. Alas, the trials and tribulations of renting. Yes, we know—we would love to buy the house, but it's simply way out of our league. Another kicker is that the school that Ava goes to is one of the best elementary schools in the state (thus explaining the high home prices). So, we're deep in the looking stages now and it's not looking all that great. I'm optimistic, however, because we just started to look and we have at least until September to find something. Just don't want to uproot Ava from her school in the thick of it. Another kicker? The attic has to be cleaned out COMPLETELY so they can show the house. This will be no easy task, my friends. Not looking forward to it.
On a more positive note, got some great blog traffic this weekend thanks to the write-ups on Cartoon Brew, Drawn!, Boing Boing, as well as some other great blogs and sites for my previous post on Jim Flora's children's book The Day the Cow Sneezed. That post was a labor of love and it feels good to know that others are able to enjoy Flora's great artwork. When Irwin graciously sent me the scans to original mock-ups of the book, I knew I had something special here that desperately needed to get out to the public. Big thanks to all of you who linked the post, as well those of you who commented—I even got one from Flora's niece! Very cool.
Another cool item to mention: remember those fun, unknown illustrations from that Home Meal Planner I posted earlier? Well, the incredibly talented Steve Lambe emailed me to let me know that they were done by Albert Aquino. Not much info is out there on Aquino, but I did find out that he illustrated some children's books—which makes complete sense, based on the look and style of the Home Meal Planner booklet. Thanks, Steve! (You can see a photoset of the booklet HERE.)
Hope your weekend was fine. Off to check out more leads on the home search now. Wish us luck.
6 comments:
sending up another prayer for you guys about the housing situation. i am sure you are leaving no stone un-turned...here's a link you probably already know about for classifieds:ReplyDelete
Hope you and your family will find a new place where you finally settle down permanantly. Here's to things looking up. ^^ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJuly 18, 2006 6:38 AM
Much luck on the house hunting! We're trying to decide between remodeling and selling, and the not knowing what to do stinks!ReplyDelete
Congrats on 'the Day the Cow Sneezed' post.
Hey, keeping you guys in our thoughts vis a vis the move! It sure was great to see y'all the other night. We gotta do it again soon!ReplyDelete
Hi! I have two Aquino-illustrated books, shall I post pics of them tomorrow?! I'll do my best!ReplyDelete
Very cool, Julia! Thanks for posting them! I'll mention it soon.ReplyDelete


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Description:Emulex 4Gbps Fibre Channel Dual Port PCI-e Host Bus Adapter (HBA)Part Numbers(s)
IBM Part# 43W7492
IBM Option Part# 42C2071
Overview:The Emulex 4GB Dual-Port for System x servers is a part of a family of high-performance 4GB Host Bus Adapter (HBA) solutions. These HBAs deliver exceptional performance with unsurpassed robustness, reliability, and performance for a wide spectrum of server, storage, and system area networks (SANS). These adapters broaden the IBM 4GB HBA portfolio for System x servers.


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Habit Rouge Sport
Eau de Toilette
The new vitality of Habit Rouge
Spray 100 ML
Indisponible -
Habit Rouge Sport is a fresh and invigorating interpretation of the legendary Habit Rouge.
Created in 1965, Habit Rouge was the first oriental fragrance for men in perfumery. From the moment of its launch, this tribute to Guerlain's passion for the dressage of horses created an element of surprise with its scents of sensual and bold vanilla. An oriental that is by turns citrusy, warm and accented with vanilla, it expresses the genius of contrast and well-mastered emotions.
Habit Rouge incarnates a man who is enamoured of refinement and capable of all manner of audacity. He lives his life fervently and distinguishes himself with a trail of extreme sensuality.
With its modern geometry and mastery of form, Habit Rouge has an eternally elegant French appeal.
Green Woody.
Fresh, seductive, modern.
Its departure makes an invigorating "splash" with bamboo, bitter orange and pink pepper notes. Delicate jasmine reveals a brighter and more luminescent heart, while woody notes, musk and patchouli make the base totally addictive and vibrant.
Habit Rouge Sport is an interpretation of Habit Rouge Eau de Toilette with completely different notes. Only a hint of the Habit Rouge base remains.


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Add your own student page to the site.
Add your signature for Lab attendance.
--Z3378012 (talk) 15:44, 13 March 2014 (EST)
--Z3378012 (talk) 15:12, 20 March 2014 (EST)
--Z3378012 (talk) 15:15, 10 April 2014 (EST)
I have been here every week to date but was unaware that this would be our method of roll attendance. If there are any issues please let me know
--Z3378012 (talk) 15:07, 1 May 2014 (EST)
--Z3378012 (talk) 15:30, 15 May 2014 (EST)
Add a sub-heading.
Add an external Link.
Add an internal Link.
This is about prokaryote. [1]
This is also about prokaryotes. [2]
<pubmed limit=2>mitochondria</pubmed>
Lab 2 Individual Assessment
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy for Detection of Schistosoma mansoni Eggs in the Gut of Mice[5]
As the name of the journal entails, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is used and compared to other imaging techniques. The aim is to detect Schistosoma mansoni eggs in the gut of mice and conclude whether CLSM is a viable and more effective and efficient method than other imagine techniques.
Schistosoma mansion eggs are direct indicators of schistosomiasis. schistosomiasis infects the urinary tract or intestines. Symptoms may include: abdominal pains, diarrhea, bloody stool, or blood in the urine. For long term sufferers and late diagnosis the effects can be liver damage, kidney failure, infertility, or bladder cancer.
The current and best way to detect schistosomiasis is detecting eggs which possess a characteristic spine from urine, stool, or rectal and bladder biopsy specimens. As sound as the current methods are, urine and stool samples do not always test positively to indicate schistosomiasis due to the viability of eggs. The dissected specimen undergoes various staining methods which can reveal different levels of egg maturity.
The results showed CLSM had a much better detection rate of all different egg maturities and thus, can be used as a more effective method of detecting schistosomiasis.
Lab 3 Individual Assessment
--Mark Hill (talk) 14:43, 1 May 2014 (EST) Good brief descriptions of papers that relate to group topic. Your descriptions though are a little to close to the actual paper abstracts. Good image.
Mechanism of axonal transport: a proposed role for calcium ions[8]
A good article as to the introduction of the mechanisms for axonal transport. Macromolecules and organelles are transported in a systems known as axonal or dendritic transport. This study looked at transport of protein in a calcium free medium to conclude that calcium plays a role in the initiation of axonal transport.
Relation of somal lipid synthesis to the fast axonal transport of protein and lipid[9]
This study inhibited phospholipid synthesis in dorsal root ganglia to show a decreased proportional effect on amount of protein undergoing fast axonal transport. Exposing an unmyelinated nerve trunk to a certain cation had no effect on protein translocation. This helps conclude that phospholipid synthesis is not required to maintain ongoing transport in the axon. Inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the ganglia also resulted in depression of protein transport. So both phospholipid and cholesterol are required at the level of the ganglion. Drawing from these results they suggested that the initiation of fast axonal transport of protein is dependent on the assembly of lipoprotein structures in the soma.
Axonal transport of microtubules: the long and short of it[10]
Specific to the transport of microtubules. The study proposes a model as to how microtubules are transported within the axon, which they term 'cut and run'. Longer microtubules are mobilized by enzymes that sever them into shorter mobile polymers. Previous studies have already shown that microtubules are transported down the axon in the form of these short polymers. The shorter microtubules are transported via cytoplasmic dynein by generating forces against the actin cytoskeleton. This was one mechanism thought to be transporting shorter microtubules after they were 'cut'. The study then talks about what mechanisms organise the longer microtubules to be then cut and transported.
Molecular motors and mechanisms of directional transport in neurons[12]
This article studies the role of motor proteins in directional axonal and dendritic transport and the mechanisms associated with them. As a basis, motors proteins seem to recognise cargoes of mRNAs and large protein–RNA complexes through adaptor complexes or scaffolding proteins. Motors can intrinsically distinguish between axons and dendrites, perhaps as a result of cues from microtubules.
Lab 4 Individual Assessment
--Mark Hill (talk) 14:42, 1 May 2014 (EST) Where are your answers to this exercise?
Identify an antibody that can been used in your group's transport project.
Identify the species deriving the antibody.
Identify the working concentration for the antibody.
Identify a secondary antibody that could be used with this antibody.
Identify a paper that has used this antibody.
Lab 7 Individual Assessment
Group 1
Introduction has good structure and with knowledge of the subject is easy to read. If this is a general informative page it may be helpful to not use too much jargon. The structure of the membrane is probably able to be put into the introduction and inserting an image would probably benefit the reader. Receptor sections needs to have more detail about PRRs and PAMPs rather than branching into the subsections. Probably a vital part of the topic that solidifies the introduction. Mechanism of phagocytosis has good amount of detail but seems disjointed. Better sentence structure will give this section more flow and make it easier to read. The first heading phagocytosis is probably unnecessary as this is done in the intro. When talking about the zipper model might be worthwhile to bold the text to place emphasis on the idea. Diseases Related to Phagocytosis and Current/Future Research subsections are great ideas that help give more information to the reader. Adding a little more to the Current/Future Research would benefit everyone greatly. One consistent issue is the referencing throughout the project. Under each section is a huge chunk of references that make it look very disjointed and messy. Should look into referencing each sentence with the appropriate reference. Overall a good job so far with some minor adjustment to make it even better.
Group 2
The introduction provides a clear understanding of the topic. There is good sentence structure and flow which then gives a good lead up to the next subsections. The rest of the project builds well on the introduction. Every section you have set as heading gives good detailed information. The only real improvement I would recommend is more images and maybe even a more broad outlook on the transport system. The quality of what you have so far is amazing but the amount of information is very select.
Group 3
The project is lacking an introduction which is vital in providing background to such a big topic. It may be worthwhile embedding an image rather than providing a link to the image for ease of reading. The link to further information on the nuclear envelope is a good way of reducing unnecessary information and making the intro succinct. Not particularly sure what the Function heading is there for if you have provided this link. Would be better if you moved the NPC section before the Nucleoporins. The explanations of each model is easy to understand and provides what's necessary. If there are any images for each model it would be good to get a visual. Nucleoporins has a table which helps with the interpretation of data. This information is hard to understand in the table though as none of the headings are really explained. RanGTP and RanGDP section seems there is a lot of jargon without any real explanation of what each is. The images helps greatly with processing information and when on the image page the subtext for the image is explained well. The rest of the project seems to be in dot points so I won't critique it. Overall the project has great images and references where necessary. I feel with the intro completed this will give the reader and much better background for reading the rest of the page. Might be worthwhile moving the sections around to go along with for mentioned intro.
Lab 9 Individual Assessment
1. Write a hypothesis that you are going to test.
2. Write aims of your experiment.
3. Identify key techniques and procedures used in your investigation (Spell these out in some detail).
4. Identify suppliers that have resources that you will need for your study (create links to the supplier resource pages, kits, antibodies etc).
5. Now prepare a flow diagram of how the experiment will be carried out and analysed.
6. What will different experimental results (outcomes) mean.
1. The apoptosis of adipocytes follows the intrinsic pathway
2. The aim of the experiment will be to investigate the mechanism of apoptosis for adipocytes in adipose tissue. Also to identify whether it follows the intrinsic, extrinsic or both pathways.
3. Immunohistochemistry that has Fas Ligand kit (CD95L) which will staining for Ligand Binding. Another stain for activated caspase 9 (Caspase 9 Human ELISA KIT).
4. Abcam, Fas Ligand kit, Caspase 9 Human ELISA KIT
5. Prepare tissue → Follow Protocol on use of Fas Ligand kit → Image tissue → Detect for presence of Fas Ligand
Repeat for Caspase 9 ELISA KIT
Prepare tissue → Follow Protocol on use of Caspase 9 ELISA kit → Image tissue → Detect for presence of Caspase 9
6. Staining that shows ligand binding indicate an extrinsic pathway. Activated caspase 9 (Caspase 9 Human ELISA KIT) that will indicate there are apoptosome formations and in essence the mitochondrial or intrinsic pathway.
- ↑ <pubmed>24603758</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>24601599</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>24603758</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>24637574</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>21533168</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>21533168</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>21887276</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>47182</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>6155973</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>16643272</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>23894274</pubmed>
- ↑ <pubmed>15711600</pubmed>


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Hi everyone
I hope you are all well and settling into to the weekend.
We have been watching the Tudor over the last couple of weeks. Love the program but it is a bit "Don't look Ethel" isn't it!? My word! My biggest question for this century is why wasn't Henry Cavill chosen to play James Bond!! Seriously he was made for the part!! Anyway, getting back to this post. The Tudors and anything historical really interests me, always has done. I have been thinking about Tudoresque projects and when I saw the PaperArtsy challenge I thought I would make up a sort of mood book or inspiration book if you like. Somewhere to put ideas etc. The challenge is books (big, small bindings) so lots to play with. I knew I wouldn't get a completed book finished in the time and this is one of those books you just keep adding to, when you want to, but I thought I would start one off and enter it into the challenge.
The base of the front cover didn't really go to plan. I ended up painting it with my hands and then lost control of the black so it turned out a little bit grungier than I wanted. The past two weeks have been incredibly hot with the humidity at about 15% and I physically couldn't get the paint on quick enough before it dried using a brush. The colours should be olive and cranberry. Then I put splashes on which don't go. Having said all that lots of positives came from this project and lots of ideas for later use.
The embellishment on the front cover was inspired by antique miniature portrait broaches and Codex Rotundus books.
I thought it would be nice to have a book on a book.
The pages for inside.
I used really cheap and cheerful water colour paper for the pages and just spritzed them with diluted ink, through stencils.
I then aged the edges using a heat gun and some lemon juice. Everything went wrong this week. My heat gun is playing up (probably the heat sensor) so I had to use the industrial type heat gun. It worked fine but it scorched some areas. Nice charred effect in other though. The trick was to keep it moving all of the time. If you do try this please be careful. The paper can catch fire.
The pages were finished and I just couldn't face sewing these into a book and I didn't prepare the book cover to do this before I started (my bad planning!) so I just used a metal binding.
A quick and simple metal binding.
Pages ages with lemon juice and heat gun.
The photo above was taken in a light box and the colours are slightly different.
It is just to give an idea of what inside the front cover looks like.
Below are a few of the pages I started adding things to. Just the basics and then lots will be added at a later date.
I like to add photos or images to these pages. This image is an old post card.
I quite like the flower page as it is. So I thought maybe I will add just some prompt words to this at a later date.
The keys on the page below have been stamped, fussy cut out and glued on.
Another post card (Alcazaba Malaga) on this one and I thought it suited this stamp image. A sort of reflected idea.
A bit more scorching!!
Another pretty one to add some words or thoughts to at a later date.
To decorate the book cover
I base coated an old book cover with Gesso. I glued onto the front a plastic lid and then covered all surfaces with tissue paper. I then gave it all another coat of Gesso. I added some patterns using relief paste and a stencil, painted the the surface and added some bronze relief paste. As I mentioned above, I added to much black so I sanded some of it down, to try and highlight the patterns and the creases in the tissue. Well….. put it this way, it didn't do it any favours! I then and then added a bit more bronze paste but that didn't help much either. So, at this point I gave up and thought it will have to do!! 🙂 All good fun though.
Thank you for looking.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Flo x


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Halloween is quickly approaching with all of its magic, sorcery and frighteningly good times! Why not create some of your own spine-tingling fun by giving voice to this eerie headless horseman? It's our talking eCard that pays homage to Washington Irving's well-known characterization in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
The story, of course, follows the plight of the timid and superstitious schoolmaster, Ichabod Crane. By the end of the tale, he is chased through the Hollow, a place known for its ghosts and haunting atmosphere, by the infamous Headless Horseman, who "rides forth to the scene of battle in nightly quest of his head." At sunrise, there is no trace of Crane or his horse, and only the scattered remains of a shattered pumpkin can be found. Was the Horseman truly a spectre or was it really Ichabod's nemesis, Abraham "Brom Bones" Van Brunt, in ingenious disguise?
It's a great tale for Halloween and this special eCard, "Heads Up," captures some of the magic and fun that comes from ghostly stories like this one. There are so many other wonderful talking, interactive and spooky eCards to choose from for Halloween, as well, at bluemountain.com…and if you're looking for something to say in the talking eCard of your choice, check out our blog from Tuesday!


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As a mother to three young children, I am rarely afforded an opportunity to do something just for me. It seems like I always have questions to answer or mouths to feed or messes to clean.
But on chilly winter days I try to carve out ten minutes to brew a pot of homemade chai tea for myself. The kids never get in my way: they know if they are good they'll enjoy a tiny cup, too.
Chai tea reminds me of India, a place I have visited more than once, before kids and grown-up life consumed my every thought. It was and is one of my favorite places on earth, and whenever I indulge my chai craving I fondly recall my time in a spicy and hazy and colorful land.
I brew the chai in a small saucepan on the stove, but I strain it into a beloved Irish tea pot given to me by my soulful grandmother. With every pot, I think about my relationship with her and the many Irish women who came before us. The tea connects me to my roots.
The tea pot is missing the lid (my son turned flung it across the room, cracking it in two). The spout is thoroughly chipped. It is tea-stained on the inside. In many ways, that tea pot is a metaphor for my life: haggard but enduring, dependable and beautiful, imperfect yet…perfect.
Homemade chai requires an array of exotic ingredients. While I'm sure my recipe is far from authentic, I wouldn't have it any other way. Fresh ginger is one of my favorite flavors – I work it into many recipes on a near daily basis. I whisk raw milk and raw honey into the brew, simple ingredients that reflect my concern for the environment and my dedication to real foods.
Making homemade chai gives me a chance to nurture my spirit and reflect on things that matter to me. And sharing a cup with an eager 2 year-old makes it all the more sweet.
Homemade Chai
4 cups water 7-9 whole cloves ½ cinnamon stick A few whole peppercorns 1-2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and smashed 3 black tea bags A few shakes of ground cardamom 2-3 tablespoons honey 1 cup whole milk
Bring water, cloves, cinnamon, peppercorns and ginger to a boil in a small saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes.
Drop tea bags into the pan. Stir in honey. Shake in the cardamom. Let the tea brew for 3 minutes. Remove tea bags.
Increase heat and whisk in milk. Bring to an almost boil, whisk again, and remove from heat. Strain into a tea pot and serve.
. . .
Maureen Smithe Brusznicki is a wife, mother and friend to Mother Nature. When she's not playing with her kids, experimenting with homemade cleaning products or cooking in the kitchen, she likes to blog about living a healthy and simple life at Homemade Mothering. Maureen has also ventured out into the business world by starting her own line of cloth diapers called Terra Baby.


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Guan Xiao, "Survivors' Hunting," exhibition view at Magician Space
The latest in a series of interviews with artists who have developed a significant body of work engaged (in its process, or in the issues it raises) with technology. See the full list of Artist Profiles here.
The first exhibition of your work that I saw was "Survivors' Hunting" at Magician Space, Beijing, in 2013. It showed your tendency towards exploring history and artefacts and the way these are presented, as well as your attitude to time and simultaneity—ignoring linear time. In it, there was a series called Cloud Atlas (2013; the title is copied from the 2004 novel by David Mitchell, in which past and future come to overlap)—freestanding works made of wooden board and painted in mushy, camouflage colors with car paint. Tall and glossy, standing in the small gallery like totems or movable walls for a stage set. They seemed to stand for something (like monuments or steles do), yet the nature of that something was missing completely. To me, this felt truly uncanny. Was it part of your aim to create this sense of disorientation?
If I do an exhibition, I like to—as artists we cannot provide any answers. We just can offer possibilities. I try to make my exhibitions convey some kind of sense, with a lot of clues. These clues can maybe lead the audience to somewhere they want to go. In my daily work, I am always trying to find out much more, to discover different methods for how I understand the world, how I draw responses and experiences from it. For the Magician Space show, I provided a lot of details for something. I can't give the right answer. I just give clues so that you can get into it and maybe use a little bit of personal imagination to try to figure out what it is.


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Welcome to the b2b website of Myanmar Tourism Marketing.
Myanmar Tourism Marketing (MTM) aims to promote Myanmar as a sustainable tourism destination that can be visited the whole year round. It is part of the Myanmar Tourism Federation and is mainly privately funded by key members of the tourism industry in Myanmar. The MTM team is happy to assist press and media to publish more about tourism in Myanmar.
Mingalaba is a word of welcome as well as a wish for good fortune. This single word best signifies the inherent nature of the people of Myanmar: not only to offer hospitality but to wish others well. With traditions deeply rooted in the loving-kindness philosophy of Buddhism, the creed the Myanmar live by is cedana, or heart-felt goodwill towards friends and strangers alike.
This has been true throughout the country's long history, which can be traced back to the 2nd century when the Rakhine ruled the west coast and Pyu civilisation began flourishing in the central regions. Throughout the years great kingdoms came and went, until the Third Myanmar Empire fell in 1885 to the colonial British. Myanmar subsequently gained independence in 1948.
For many years Myanmar disappeared behind a wall of self-isolation, and only recently did it reopen its doors to the outside world, revealing the country's unique culture and stunning scenery to new generations of visitors. With a diversity of terrain that ranges from ice-capped mountains in the north, to pagoda-filled plains in the centre, to miles of pristine beaches along the coast, Myanmar has something to offer at all times of the year.
Myanmar is an agrarian country with a population of more than 50 million, about 90 percent of whom live in rural areas. More than 100 different national groups live within the country's borders. The Bama or Myanmar are the majority group inhabiting the central zone, while the Shan, Kayin, Kachin, Kayah, Chin, Rakhine and Mon and their sub-groups live in mountainous regions closer to the borders or along the coast. Buddhism is the predominant religion, but there are also substantial numbers of Christians, Hindus, Muslims and animists throughout the country. It is therefore not unusual to see pagodas, churches, mosques and temples standing together in a single neighbourhood. Spirit worship also exists side-byside with Buddhism, as these minor gods are believed to be disciples of the Buddha's teachings.
To this day Myanmar remains one of the most mysterious and undiscovered destinations in the world, a land of breathtaking beauty and charm that offers traditional Asian delights to all visitors.
Myanmar is rich not only in traditions; the fertile land is crossed by a number of rivers that are used for transportation and irrigation, and also as a source of food. Mines have yielded some of the world's finest rubies and imperial jades, while the sea off the southern coast is prime breeding ground for cultured pearls of excellent lustre. The country's natural resources also include a stunning array of flora and fauna, from elusive tigers and elephants, to rare birds, butterflies and orchids. Many of these species are protected by Myanmar's system of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
However, the most precious treasure of Myanmar is its people. One of the best ways to get an up close and personal look at local culture is to attend one of the many festivals that occur throughout the year. Pagoda festivals are very popular, and national groups also celebrate their own new year and harvest days. The spirits are also honoured with festivals that feature energetic music and dance performances. On a personal level, families celebrate their sons' novitiation into the Buddhist Order, and daughters are pampered with equally lavish ceremonies to have their ears pierced.
To this day Myanmar remains one of the most mysterious and undiscovered destinations in the world, a land of breathtaking beauty and charm that offers traditional Asian delights to all visitors. We welcome you to Myanmar, the golden land of pagodas, with a wish for your good fortune: Mingalaba.


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Donald R. Palmer
August 17, 1928 - April 13, 2013
The Hampton Union,
April 21, 2013
NORTH HAMPTON — Donald R. Palmer, 84, died peacefully Saturday, April 13, 2013, at Webster at Rye, surrounded by his family.
Born Aug. 17, 1928, in Exeter, he was a son of the late Philip and Gertrude (Paulsen) Palmer.
Don attended Hampton schools, graduating from Hampton Academy with the Class of 1946. He served as class president.
After graduation, Don joined the United States Coast Guard and was stationed aboard the USCGC Mackinaw, as well as at a LORAN Station on Makin Atoll, South Pacific, and a tour at Governors Island, New York.
In 1954 he graduated from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. Upon graduation, Don joined Abbott Laboratories as a sales representative. He returned to New Hampshire in 1960, opening Palmer's Pharmacy in Hampton and, later, a second location in North Hampton.
A registered pharmacist for 50 years, Don was the New Hampshire recipient of the 1977 AH Robbins Award for outstanding community service.
Following through with an earlier interest as a special officer for the Hampton Police Department, Don began a second career in 1977, joining the New Hampshire State Police as a compliance investigator. He took great satisfaction from this position, which he held until his retirement in 1990.
Don served his community in numerous roles including two terms as selectman for the town of North Hampton and member of the Hampton Cooperative Bank board of directors, member of the North Hampton Ambulance Association.
He was also a charter member of the Hampton Rotary and member of the Hampton Jaycees. Don was instrumental in the founding of the Seacoast Visiting Nurse Association, something of which he was very proud.
An avid sailor and fisherman, Don was happiest at the helm. He also enjoyed skiing and traveling, especially to Hawaii and his camp in St. Stephen, New Brunswick, Canada. In addition, Don was an accomplished woodworker, with family and friends reaping the benefits of his talents.
Don shared 60 years of marriage with his late wife, Jane (McGaw) Palmer, who died in 2011.
Family members include his son, Douglas Palmer and his wife Lori of Kailua, Hawaii; his daughters, Donna Johnson and her husband David of Buxton, Maine, and Sue Ingram and her husband Dick of Springfield, Ill., and North Hampton; brother Allen "Bud" Palmer of Jupiter Fla.; grandchildren Sarah Palmer, Cara (Johnson) Laflamme, Colin and Tyler Ingram; four great-grandchildren, three nieces and one great-niece.
SERVICES: There will be no visiting hours. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 27, at Christ Church, 43 Pine St., Exeter, NH 03833. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Winnacunnet High School Scholarship Fund, 1 Alumni Drive, Hampton, NH 03842.
Arrangements are by the Remick & Gendron Funeral Home-Crematory, Hampton.


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The Hoot & Hangout Tree is a delightful way to add personality and art to any space! The design is so friendly, with a happy community of owls, birds and butterflies in the well appointed branches of a fantasy forest tree. At over 4 feet tall and almost 5 feet wide (50″ x 58″) this tree is like a wall mural, completely captivating the entire room with a happy vibe. Have you ever wondered if it is hard to install? Some of our larger decals are best installed with a friend so that you can help each other get things straight and apply bigger pieces with ease.However, the Hoot & Hangout Tree is perfectly proportioned into multiple pieces.
It comes with easy to follow instructions for assembling the 24 parts that make up the swirling tree. Then you are free to place the leaves, birdhouses, owls, and all the other fun accent pieces wherever you want! You can even save a few cute detail decals to add a coordinated theme to other parts of the room! Enjoy this quick video for a peek at how easy it is to install this beloved tree wall art.
Have you decorated a darling nursery or kids room with the Hoot & Hangout Tree? We would love to see your photos! Share them below, post on our Facebook page, tag us on Instagram or mention us on Pinterest!


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Readies Station for OccupancySpace
Shuttle Atlantis spent nearly 12 days in orbit during September
2000, seven of which were spent docked with the International
Space Station.
The international
crew of seven included Commander Terry Wilcutt, Pilot Scott
Altman and Mission Specialists Richard Mastracchio, Edward
Lu, Boris Morukov and Yuri Malenchenko. Cosmonauts Morukov
and Malenchenko represented the Russian Space Agency.
in orbit, the STS-106 crew successfully prepared the International
Space Station for the arrival of the first permanent crew.
Lu and Malenchenko performed a space walk to connect power,
data and communications cables to the newly arrived Zvezda
Service Module and the station.
Works Five Days Inside Station
The STS-106 crew spent five days, 9 hours and 21 minutes inside
the International Space Station. The seven crewmembers completed
a long checklist aimed at making the station a home for its
first residents, who would arrive about five weeks later to
stay for more than four months.
The STS-106
crewmembers -- acting as plumbers, movers, installers and
electricians -- installed batteries, power converters, a toilet
and a treadmill on the outpost. They also delivered more than
2,993 kilograms (6,600 pounds) of supplies. Atlantis' thrusters
were fired four times to boost the station's altitude by 22.5
kilometers, or 14 miles.
undocking, Pilot Scott Altman moved Atlantis to a distance
of about 137 meters (450 feet) and flew it in a precise two-loop
circle around the station as the rest of the crew photo-documented
its exterior.
Curator: Kim
Dismukes | Responsible NASA Official: John Ira Petty | Updated: 12/10/2003Web Accessibility and Policy Notices


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Priceline falling over fiscal cliff? Stock down 5%December 10, 2012: 12:23 PM ET
William Shatner's Priceline Negotiator character famously plunged off a cliff in a TV ad earlier this year. Despite fears of his untimely demise, he miraculously survived. But now it looks like shares of Priceline (PCLN) are falling off the fiscal cliff ... and it's not as clear just yet if they'll bounce back as quickly as the Shat.
Priceline's stock lost 5% Monday after Deutsche Bank downgraded it from a "buy" to a "hold." Some traders on StockTwits were talking about how there were legitimate fundamental reasons for Priceline to be taking a hit.
But others speculated that the dip may be temporary. Priceline, like other momentum stocks such as Apple (AAPL) and Google (GOOG) may be falling because investors are worried about possible changes to capital gains taxes in the event that there is no fiscal cliff deal ... or if Republicans agree to higher rates as part of a compromise.
Deutsche Bank Downgrades http://stks.co/dFvJ ($PCLN) to Hold, Sees "Cold War" Hurting http://stks.co/dFvK
Specifically, the DB analyst seems concerned about more competition from Expedia (EXPE). There's also the possibility that Priceline, which is in the process of acquiring Kayak (KYAK), will face tough competition from Google and its travel software company ITA.
@MarkAlanT Downgrades can sting with out warning. $PCLN
Exactly. And considering that the stock is still up about 35% this year, it's understandable that investors may get scared when an analyst from a big sell-side shop suddenly gets less bullish.
http://t.co/Jb4kBq4l ($PCLN) now down 4.5% on a DB downgrade? Maybe this is a "tax" stock as well like Apple. Big gains over last 5 yrs.
Higher beta stocks are moving lower or stalling out while dogs from this past year are moving up. $AAPL $PCLN $GOOG
You do always have to be wary of reading too much into how winning and losing stocks do at the end of the year because of taxes. And that effect may be magnified with the big gainers this year due to the fiscal cliff. As for this year's dogs, it is telling that huge laggards like Hewlett-Packard (HPQ) and Dell (DELL) have popped during the past few weeks despite abysmal sales and earnings outlooks.
Someone figured out $PCLN had MORE capgains than $AAPL and Europe (50% revenue) is in deep recession.
That really sums up the sell-off best. Priceline is probably down due to a mix of tax concerns and fears that Europe's problems will lead to a challenging year for Priceline in 2013.
So far, analysts have not cut their forecasts due to Europe concerns just yet. And some might argue that the worst of Europe's woes may already be priced in the stock. But considering that Priceline trades at 17 times 2013 profit forecasts -- a slight premium to Expedia -- then bad news may not yet be baked into the stock. Priceline could very well face a tougher climb than Shatner.


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A Deerfield woman charged with stalking the Rev. Michael Pfleger told authorities that God told her that she was supposed to marry the priest, prosecutors said today.
Lidia Kuzniar, 55, of the 1100 block of Montgomery Drive, was charged Monday afternoon with felony stalking after she tried to approach Pfleger during church services on several occasions, prosecutors said at her bond hearing today.
She was ordered held without bail, prosecutors said.
Kuzniar was arrested shortly after 11 a.m. Sunday during services at St. Sabina, 1210 West 78th Pl., where Pfleger is pastor, officials said.
Before Sunday's arrest, Kuzniar had been arrested at the church several other times for trespassing and stalking, police said. The priest had also taken out an order of protection against the woman, said Assistant State's Attorney Lorraine Scaduto.
The first instance happened during church services on Nov. 4, when Kuzniar ran down a church aisle to get to Pfleger who was officiating at services that day. Kuzniar was detained by church officials, who took her to the basement of the church where two doctors affiliated with the church were located, said Scaduto.
"[Kuzniar] indicated that she was supposed to marry [Pfleger], that God told her this, and that nothing would stop her," said Scaduto.
After the woman was escorted from the church, she returned the following day at about 6 p.m. The woman refused to leave and was warned that if she did not leave she would be arrested for trespassing, Scaduto said.
"But [Kuzniar] lied down on the floor, let her body go limp, and refused to get up," said Scaduto.
Police eventually showed up and took the woman to Jackson Park Hospital, where she underwent a psychiatric evaluation only to be released later that day, Scaduto said.
Several days later, the woman returned to the church and waited there for several hours. After being told to leave, she ran through the church, trying to open several doors to get to Pfleger until police were called and she was arrested, Scaduto said.
On Nov. 9, Pfleger obtained an order of protection against the woman which was to expire on Nov. 30, Scaduto said. But on Nov. 11, the woman returned to the church grounds while Pfleger was holding Sunday Mass.
A police detective serving as an off-duty security guard at the church spotted the woman in the parking lot of the church; with a copy of the protection order in his hand, he walked up to the woman as she remained in her vehicle. At that point, the woman waved her own copy of the order in her hand, Scaduto said.
"[Kuzniar] indicated that she only listens to God's law and refused to leave," said Scaduto.
Police were called again and the woman was escorted from the church property.
On Nov. 18, the woman returned again during services and was detained as she ran down the church aisle toward the altar.
She was apprehended before she could get to Pfleger and the altar and was held on a church pew to await police who arrived and arrested her again. She was ordered held without bail.
"It's just progressed and gotten more serious," Pfleger said during a telephone interview. "It's very disturbing."
The woman wasn't armed but "people really felt threatened."
Twitter: @ChicagoBreaking


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Need support? Join the H Opp community for free.
Welcome to the Herpes Opportunity Support Forum, a supportive and positive group of people to help you discover and live your Opportunity. Together, we can shed the shame and embrace vulnerability and true connection. Because who you are is more important than what you have.


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Originally published on Care2.
Kreider Farms is hell on earth for egg-laying chickens. The Humane Society of the United States released a mercifully short video summarizing its investigation of the conditions at Kreider.
According to HSUS, the investigation revealed:
- Birds were severely overcrowded in cages more cramped than the national average; each hen received only 54–58 square inches of space on which to spend her life.
- Injured and dead hens, including mummified bird carcasses, were found inside cages with living hens laying eggs for human consumption.
- Hens were left without water for days when a water source malfunctioned, causing many to die.
- Hens' legs, wings, and heads were found trapped in cage wires and automated feeding machinery.
- A thick layer of dead flies on the barn floors caused a crunching sound when walking on it.
Nicholas D. Kristof reports in The New York Times that Kreider produces "4.5 million eggs each day for supermarkets like ShopRite" — it is no fly-by-night operation, and its policies condemn millions of chickens to lives of unrelenting suffering.
Kristof reports that Kreider crams so many birds into small cages that they can hardly move for their entire lives. According to Kristof, HSUS's investigator reported that the stench and filth in the barns are so repulsive that workers spend as little time in them as possible. Sadly the birds don't have the option of walking out the door.
Kristof quotes Ron Kreider, president of Kreider Farms, as saying, "The reality of food processing can be off-putting to those not familiar with animal agriculture." Not exactly reassuring words for those who care how animals raised for food are treated.
Since there is no government regulation guaranteeing that any label (like "organic" or "cage-free") guarantees humane treatment for fowl, the best way to ensure that no birds were tortured in the production of your eggs is not to eat any.
Photo credit: Ethelred


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UCLA School of Law offers students a rigorous and engaging J.D. program. From the innovative design of our first-year curriculum, to the demanding capstone courses of the advanced curriculum, UCLA Law offers students a dynamic start to their professional life.
At UCLA Law, students begin with a remarkable first-year learning experience, which promotes optimal learning and development of their professional identities from the start. In the upper-level curriculum, students select from extensive advanced course offerings, clinics and specializations to further their individual interests and goals.
Degree Requirements
The candidate for the degree of Juris Doctor must have pursued resident (full-time) law school study for at least six semesters, and have satisfactorily completed the following:
First-Year Courses
The first year of the J.D. program provides the foundation for the J.D. education. Students begin with an introduction to the study and analysis of law, followed by a strong first-year curriculum, including Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Property, Torts and Lawyering Skills.
Two innovative courses unique to UCLA School of Law round out our first year curriculum. The first course, Lawyer-Client Relationship, introduces students to the attorney-client relationship through the skill of interviewing and provides students with an understanding of the professional and ethical obligations that are integral to the relationship between and a lawyer and a client. Students also have the opportunity to obtain live client interviewing experiential through pro bono placements. The second course, Modes of Legal Inquiry, are small seminars designed to expose students to some analytical, empirical, theoretical or normative perspective on law.
Upper-Level Requirements
In order to receive the J.D. degree, students must complete a total of 87 semester units of coursework, including a course on Professional Responsibility and a substantial analytic writing requirement. Starting with the entering class of fall 2016, students must also complete six units of experiential coursework.
Students must maintain minimum course load requirements each semester, and the maximum amount of elapsed time permitted between enrollment in the law school and graduation is five years.


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SAN ANTONIO -- A group that got its start in Army Entertainment is the driving force behind the American Military Spouses Choir, an "America's Got Talent" quarterfinalist scheduled to perform Aug. 6 at Radio City Music Hall in New York. The show will be televised live at 9 p.m. ET on NBC. The American Military Spouses Choir competing on "America's Got Talent" consists of 37 spouses of active-duty military personnel, including 10 Army wives whose husbands range in rank from sergeant to major general. All told, there are 50 military spouses in the choir, ranging in age from 19 to 54, whose husbands range in rank from corporal to two-star general.
The group is the brainchild of Victor Hurtado, an Army Entertainment veteran who has performed in and directed programs such as the U.S. Army Soldier Show, Operation Rising Star, Military Idol and Stars of Tomorrow, among others, for nearly three decades. Hurtado also founded CAMMO, a non-profit Center for American Military Music Opportunities, which supports the military wives choir. The group was assembled for a May 6 performance at the 2012 Kennedy Center Spring Gala: An Evening with David Foster & Friends in Washington, where they sang "The Promise That We Make," an original song co-written by Charlie Midnight, who penned "Living in America" for James Brown, and Bernie Herms, who arranged the Natalie Grant version of "Joy to the World."
"They were supposed to do a one-night performance at the Kennedy Center," Hurtado deadpanned. "And, oh, by the way, I put them together over the Internet while directing the last two weeks of Soldier Show last year." Several clips of Foster introducing the American Military Spouses Choir are available on YouTube, as is footage of them singing "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" on "America's Got Talent." The lead vocalist for that number, Melissa Gomez, won Army Entertainment's 2010 Operation Rising Star, a military singing contest about to embark on its ninth season.
"Melissa has risen to the top from the very beginning," Hurtado said. "Her training that she got over the years with Army Entertainment was extremely evident." The military wives climbed their first mountain, which obviously was not high enough, May 10 in Chicago, and advanced to the second round in Las Vegas, where they were told July 16 to pack their bags for a trip to New York City. "Their performance was strong enough to put them through," said Hurtado, who explained that 60 acts advanced to the "America's Got Talent" quarterfinals in New York, where 12 will perform each week for five weeks. "There were a few that were put through without having to perform again [in Las Vegas]. It's going to keep going because these ladies ain't playin'."
Vicki Golding, Army Entertainment's 2006 Military Idol champion, is the choirmaster for the American Military Spouses Choir.
"She is the reason why we're able to do what we do," Hurtado said. "I send her the arrangements, she writes out the parts, and then Joey [Beebe] checks our work. She has become a real viable music director/choirmaster." Beebe, another former Soldier Show performer, currently serves as music director of Army Entertainment's marquee program. He also works with Soldiers and military family members competing in Operation Rising Star.
"Joey Beebe is the music director for CAMMO, so that makes him the music director for all the artists that fall under CAMMO," Hurtado said. "When the ladies first met -- they actually met the night before the gig at the Kennedy Center. They had never met before. And Joey has had that choir since that night. He taught them the song. He made it sound amazing. And they performed the next day at the Kennedy Center. "David Foster said it was some of the best vocal choral work, dynamically, musically, pitch-wise, everything, that he had ever experienced in his life. And he told Joey that himself. Joey just stood there and listened. I've never seen Joey at a loss for words like that before." Ron Henry, another former Army Entertainment performer and original member of the 4TROOPS recording group, also helps the American Military Spouses Choir. "He's in line to work with the ladies when one of us is not there," Hurtado said. "Vicki, Joey, Ron and I have all groomed so well that we can all sing, fill in for 4TROOPS, or conduct a choir. To have that sort of stable, that we are all interchangeable like that, is pretty satisfying for someone who had Sgt. Henry coming to Alaska with me, and Spc. Beebe coming to be the first assistant director, or Vicki Golding, who won Military Idol and sings so beautifully and is such a skilled music director. Who knew, right?" And then there are the ladies getting it done on stage for their troops. "I have been a military spouse for 34 years and this choir experience validates what I have learned about all military spouses," said Karen Gravlin Bartell of Fort Eustis, Va. "They are strong, loyal, resourceful, supportive, kind-hearted, honest and, of course, talented. "America's Got Talent" and Radio City Music Hall are giving us the chance to show that to America." "I love being part of a choir that sings in tribute to our military," said Michelle Gable of Fort Meade, Md. "I sing to say 'thank you.' I sing to say 'I love you.' I sing so that those who are silent will be remembered." "Being in the choir is a dream come true for me," said Gomez, an Army veteran and spouse with the 7th Special Forces Group at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. "I feel I am part of something so special that is afforded to me because I am a military spouse. Being in New York is still surreal! Performing at Radio City Music Hall solidifies our status as true artists in the music industry and our cause is one worthy of recognition."
"First and foremost, I am in total awe, total shock of where we are now: New York City!" said Yari Dominguez of Fort Rucker, Ala. "And we'll be performing at Radio City Music Hall, where the big dogs perform - where legends have paved that path for others' dreams. It's a true honor to be singing with such an amazing group of ladies, knowing we all represent and stand for the same reason. It's a blessing - a once in a lifetime experience." "This experience for me is more than just a competition," said Crystal Wood of Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C. "This choir has given me a sisterhood and a support system that I have never had. The love and support we have received from not only military families, but also from the public, is incredible. So many times as a military family, we are isolated and struggle alone. Since being on the show, so many families have said that we have inspired them, when in fact their support has inspired us. We are representing not only military families but also anyone who has been separated from their loved ones or experienced difficult situations. We are a beacon of hope for so many, that no matter how difficult the journey may be, you can always find a glimmer of light and the end of even the darkest tunnel. Performing at Radio City Music Hall is affirmation that as a society we all should support each other and we can overcome even our darkest moments." "What it means to me to be in this choir is that I'm not alone," said Stephanie Holberg of Fort Leavenworth, Kan. "It's a blast being in New York City, beyond a dream to perform at Radio City Music Hall, and a huge honor to give military spouses a voice. In a world where you hear so much negative news, this is such an amazing forum to share our stories and share something positive and patriotic like military spouses singing for their husbands and choir." The remaining Army wives in the choir: Brandy Albert and Rachael Smith, both of Fort Belvoir, Va., Deidra Lee Stubbs of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and Sonjia Perry of Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.
Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, dropped by to visit during one of the American Military Spouses Choir rehearsals and his wife, Deanie, personally thanked the ladies. More than 35,000 auditioned last autumn for this season of "America's Got Talent," which will culminate in September.


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After growing 4.5% in 2017 Czech GDP growth is expected to increase at a slower pace in 2018 and 2019, as Eurozone and domestic demand are cooling down.
Political situation
Head of state: President Milos Zeman (since March 2013)
Head of government: Prime Minister Andrej Babis (since December 2017)
Population: 10.6 million
Minority government supported by the communist party
In the October 2017 general elections the billionaire Andrej Babis and his populist party "ANO 2011" ("Yes 2011") won the most votes. A Babis-led government lost a confidence vote in January 2018 and resigned, but remained in charge as a caretaker government. In July 2018 the administration, now consisting of a coalition between ANO 2011 and the leftist Czech Social Democratic Party (CSSD), finally won a second vote of confidence. However, still lacking a majority with only 93 seats in the 200-member parliament, it had to rely on the support of the pro-Russian Czech Communist Party, which since then has an informal role in the government – for the first time since 1989.
Economic situation
Slower, but still solid growth rates expected in 2018 and 2019
After growing 4.5% in 2017 Czech GDP growth is expected to increase at a slower pace in 2018 and 2019, as Eurozone and domestic demand are cooling down. However, the economic expansion is forecast to remain positive, with annual growth rates of about 3% in 2018 and 2019.
Private consumption growth has been driven by wage growth, decreasing unemployment and favourable lending conditions. In recent years export growth has been supported by the country´s improved international competitiveness. However, labour shortages are increasingly an issue, with many firms finding it difficult to fill vacancies.
In April 2017 the central bank abandoned a cap (currency ceiling level) on the koruna against the euro amid rising inflation and robust economic growth. The cap was introduced in November 2013 in order to improve the country´s competitiveness, boost exports and contain deflationary pressures. Rising inflation due to surging wages and rising house prices led to gradual increases in the benchmark interest rate, from 0.25% in August 2017 to 1.25% in August 2018.
Government finances are solid due to income growth and increased tax compliance. At 32% of GDP in 2017, government debt was low compared to other countries in the region, and is expected to decrease further. The good state of public finances means that the Czech Republic should have no troubles adhering to the adoption criteria of the euro. However, entering the eurozone still remains a controversial issue in Czech politics, with public opinion against it (in the October 2017 general elections pro-EU parties won just 40% of the votes). Therefore, a eurozone entry in the coming years seems unlikely.
Export-dependency a potential risk factor
Despite the generally benign outlook, downside risks remain. At more than 75%, the Czech Republic's export-to-GDP ratio is one of the highest in the EU, and due to foreign investment, the Czech economy is highly integrated into international value chains. This makes the country vulnerable to foreign trade losses. The main risks in this respect are rapid exchange rate appreciation hurting international competitiveness and sharp declines in external demand, e.g. triggered by increased political uncertainty (Brexit), an escalation of international trade disputes or a sudden slowdown in the eurozone.


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Updated 11:27 a.m. - President Barack Obama and Republican nominee Mitt Romney returned Monday evening to the states that launched their respective bids for the presidency, wrapping their campaigning ahead of Election Day.
Joined by their spouses, Obama returned to Iowa -- where he won the 2008 caucuses -- and Romney stopped in New Hampshire -- where he won the primary at the beginning of this year -- to bring to an end their long, hard battle over whom Americans would select as their president for the next four years.
"I've come back to Iowa one more time to ask for your vote," a visibly emotional Obama told a crowd near his first campaign office in Des Moines. "Because this is where our movement for change began. Right here."
"It's out of my hands now," he said. "It's up to you."
Emmanuel Dunand / AFP - Getty Images
Mitt Romney holds a rally at Orlando Sanford international airport in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 5, 2012.
Both Obama and Romney seemed to drink in the adulation of their supporters in the closing hours of the campaign, before voters would take to the polls in fewer than 12 hours to render their verdict on the election.
"This is a special moment for Ann and for me, because this is where our campaign began," Romney said to a crowd in New Hampshire. "Your primary vote put me on the path to win the Republican nomination, and tomorrow your votes and your work here in New Hampshire will help me become the next president of the United States."
The stops mostly concluded the campaigning of the 2012 election. Romney was set to make stops Tuesday in Cleveland and Pittsburgh, and Republican vice presidential nominee would also stop in Cleveland and Richmond. Those stops, though, were billed as less formal than the giant, raucous rallies that have dominated the candidates' schedules in the closing days of the campaign.
Obama and Romney capped what was a "barnburner" final day of campaigning, as he and Romney hop-scotched across the country to make stops in the states on which they're relying tomorrow.
Ryan launches campaign 'barnburner' in Obama-leaning Nevada
So far, more than 4.5 million Floridians have already voted, sometimes after waiting in hours-long lines. NBC's Mark Potter reports.
Romney made a four-state tour through Florida, Virginia and Ohio – states that are critical to his hopes of becoming president – before concluding in New Hampshire, the cornerstone of Romney's victory in the GOP presidential primary earlier this year, and the state neighboring Massachusetts, where Romney served as governor and his campaign is now headquartered.
Both sides agree, winning Colorado could be key. A recent NBC/WSJ/Marist poll had the race tied at 48 percent each. NBC's Mike Taibbi reports.
The president spent the day visiting Wisconsin, Iowa and Ohio -- the states composing his Midwestern "firewall," where he's sought to build an advantage over Romney.
Their schedules, coming on the heels of a jam-packed weekend of campaigning across the country by both the candidates and their surrogates, was nothing short of a "barnburner," as Ryan put it at first rally of the day, in Nevada.
"We're doing a barnburner today," Ryan said in the state, which is seen as leaning toward Obama in NBC News' battleground map. "We are crisscrossing the country – Mitt and I are because we are asking you to work with us, to stand with us to get our country back on the right track."
Both Obama and Romney stuck to well-worn scripts that they had used throughout the frenetic final days of the campaign. The candidates at times seemed to acknowledge that much of the campaign's outcome might be out of their hands, pleading with supporters to sway a winnowing number of swing voters over to their cause.
How will the Hispanic vote and the white vote impact the presidential election? What about older voters and younger voters? How much of an impact will Hurricane Sandy have on voting? NBC News' Chuck Todd and Time's Mike Murphy join a conversation on the issue.
"Your voices are being heard all over the nation loud and clear, thank you," Romney said in Virginia. "I also want to thank many of you in this crowd that have been out there working on the campaign – making calls from the victory centers, and by putting up a yard sign, in your neighbor's yard and maybe convincing a coworker to vote for Paul Ryan and me."
Obama kicked off his first rally of the day with rocker Bruce Springsteen, who would hitch a ride with the president to Columbus for an afternoon rally, which was also to feature rapper Jay-Z.
"I get to fly around with him on the last day I'll ever campaign, so that's not a bad way to end things," he said of Springsteen, who will accompany Obama to Columbus, Ohio, on Air Force One.
The state with 13 electoral votes could go either way in this election, and may play a critical role in determining not only the next president, but also which party will control the U.S. Senate. NBC's Tom Costello reports.
Both Obama and Romney's schedules, though, sent a powerful signal about their fundamental strategy for Election Day.
The states Romney is visiting, for instance, are virtually essential for his hopes come Tuesday. Failing to win Florida, for instance, would force Romney to have to win every single other remaining battleground state.
Obama's stops, meanwhile, suggested attentiveness to his so-called "firewall," which Republicans have argued is cracking amid surging Republican enthusiasm in battleground states.
Reuters, Getty Images
Campaigning with Mitt Romney and Barack Obama, voting and election results.
Vice President Joe Biden, during a stop at a cafe in Sterling, Va., predicted the bloc would hold.
"I think we'll win Ohio, I think we'll win Wisconsin, I think we'll win Iowa. I think we'll win Nevada, I think we'll win new Hampshire," he told reporters. He added that Florida would be "close," but said he thought "have a real shot of winning" the Sunshine State.
As they made their final arguments to sprawling crowds throughout the day, both Romney and Obama got an assist from additional superstars who entertained audiences before rallies had begun.
Larry Downing / Reuters
Supporters hold a sign as President Barack Obama speaks at a campaign event at Fifth Third Arena at the University of Cincinnati, Nov. 4, 2012.
Obama was traveling with Springsteen and Jay-Z on Monday, but Katy Perry and John Mellencamp had played before other Obama audiences over the weekend. Romney's rally on Monday in Ohio was also slated to feature the Marshall Tucker Band.
Both Springsteen and Jay Z each did special songs for the Obama campaign, in Jay Z's case, changing an epithet in one of his songs to reference Romney instead.
"If you're having world problems, I feel bad for you son," he said, "I got 99 problems, but Mitt ain't one."
In the past six presidential elections, Wisconsin has been reliably blue – but this year, thanks to Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan, the race is much tighter. NBC's Ron Mott reports.


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Making September Lineup Decisions
By Eriq Gardner //
The final few weeks of the MLB season are upon us. No longer can we wait on a slumping superstar to get his act together. A shortage of games means there's simply not large enough of a sample size to comfortably project that luck will regress to the norm.
As teams in leagues fight in close categories for those extra few difference-making points, this might be the time where conventional wisdom gets flipped. A hot bat might be better in one's lineup than a big down-on-his-fortune name.
Here are some examples:
- Progression over Disappointment: Alex Gordon over Andre Ethier: Since the All Star Break, Gordon has been one of the top 10 batters in the majors,with a .312 average and 9 HR and 8 SB. The Royals outfielder may be finally living up to his potential, and with the team being extremely aggressive on the basepaths, Gordon suddenly looks like a sleeper 25/25 candidate for next season. For now, he's showing decent plate discipline and production across the board to make him a prime September contributor. Meanwhile, Ethier has been terrible with just 2 HR and a .255 BA in the second half. He's been extremely unlucky as a nice 20 BB/29 KO rate these past couple of months will testify. But there's no time to wait on whatever mystery ailments have been keeping him back.
- Accomplishment over Gimpiness: Edwin Encarnacion over Alex Rodriguez: The aging Yankees superstar has been bedeviled by injuries this season, and still holds tremendous game-to-game potential, but with the Bronx Bombers virtually assured of a playoff spot, don't be surprised to see A-Rod getting extra rest time down the stretch. Even if his nagging thumb injury clears, he will likely be pulled from any lopsided games, making it very tough to count on his at-bats for the final few weeks. Besides, his full season production in 2011 (14 HR, 57 R, 53 RBIs, 4 SB, .288 BA) isn't that much different than Encarnacion's (15 HR, 64 R, 44 RBIs, 5 SB, .273 BA). Of late, EE has been tremendously hot, with 9 HR, 4 SB, and a .300 BA since the All Star Break. In that time, he's been quietly the #1 rated third basemen.
- Ambition over Laurels: Jemile Weeks over Andrew McCutchen: Since being called up in early June, Weeks has been better than advertised. He hasn't contributed anything in the power categories, but he's certainly hitting (.297) and has been hot to show off his wheels. In the second half, he's stolen nearly as many bases (14) as any other player in baseball and what's especially encouraging is that his batting eye seems to be getting better and better. He was always a patient hitter in the minors so expect him to continue getting on base and trying to make the case he's the A's leadoff hitter of the future. Meanwhile, McCutchen is having a very fine season, and he will no doubt go into next season as one of the top few outfielders. A player whose long-term future continues to be bright. That said, his fortunes have mirrored those of the Pittsburgh Pirates. He's slumping of late (.227 BA since the ASB with just 5 SB) and it's hard to figure he'll be a solid bet for runs and RBIs in the final month. Those in need of speed in the utility spot wouldn't be faulted for starting Weeks ahead of McCutchen these final few weeks.


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National Character Test: Morality and Religious Freedom Matter
June 17 issue editorial for Flag Day.
Painfully high unemployment figures have led many political commentators to insist that the upcoming presidential race is — to repeat the tired refrain — "about the economy, stupid," a phrase first used in the 1992 presidential election year. In other words, American jobseekers will shrug off other concerns and vote solely on the basis of bottom-line goals.
Yet what has always been distinctive about our culture, as Alexis de Tocqueville presciently observed in his masterwork, Democracy in America, is that our experiment in ordered liberty depends on the strength of our national character, and that means social issues and moral principles matter.
In our history, religious movements secured groundbreaking legislation to end slavery and stem the brutal consequence of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court ruling that made abortion legal.
In recent decades, there has been a growing divide on how to correctly interpret the Gospel mandate. Both President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, his presumptive opponent in the November election, have employed religious ideas and language while addressing social and economic issues. For example, the president referenced Scripture to justify his support for same-sex "marriage" and for increasing tax burdens for affluent Americans. Romney, during a May commencement address at Liberty University, offered a vision of faith-inspired political and cultural engagement that transcended denominational boundaries and even partisan politics.
His emphasis on personal moral responsibility as a pathway to a stronger American culture and economy acknowledged that the country needs to reclaim the Founding Fathers' understanding of American character.
The U.S. bishops frequently advance principles and practical policies that straddle the partisan divide. When they publicly opposed the Health and Human Services "contraception mandate," special interests mischaracterized their stance as a "war on women" and suggested the bishops sought to advance a conservative campaign to move the Catholic "swing vote" to the GOP. But the bishops know well that the strength of religious institutions and robust First Amendment rights will help assure that Americans continue to view the nation and its future security in a rich, integrated manner.
This means that we can't limit political debate to a utilitarian cost-benefit analysis that pushes issues of national character to the sidelines.
Indeed, it is during times of deep crisis that a nation's citizens must be especially mindful of unchanging moral precepts that protect us from the temptation to despair, to penalize the vulnerable or to embrace leaders with facile solutions.


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Storms to give way to wind, snow
Rain, then break, then snow and wind, then sun
Join in: Live Wire coverage of the storm
Get ready for a wild ride over the next 24-36 hours.
A complex storm is moving in and every few hours the weather around here will be changing.
Storms arrived Thursday morning. Gusty southerly winds of 20-30 mph will keep temperatures mild early, but his will not last long. Our highs will be around noon in the low 50s.
The cold front is on the way by around 4 p.mm. This will shut off the rain, but trigger the strongest winds and start a temperature freefall Temperatures will quickly fall 10-15 degrees to near freezing and lower.
Winds will likely gust upwards of 50 mph overnight and with temperatures 25-30, wind chills will fall to between 5-15 degrees.
Wind driven snow showers arrive this evening, accumulating around an inch. It will feel like winter.
While widespread travel problems are not anticipated unless traveling north of I-70, watch out for a few slick spots especially as you head north through the Tri-State.
The strong winds will pick up that light snow and repeatedly toss it over the roads making roads slick in a split second. Also, visibility may be low at times due to the blowing snow.
As the powerful storm center pulls away Friday, strong winds will begin to relax but temperatures will barely budge, struggling to reach freezing. A few lingering flurries are possible as clouds will be slow to clear.
The weather pattern looks active through Christmas. Another storm will bring rain to the area Christmas Eve night, followed by a break on Christmas Day, and yet another storm immediately after Christmas.